Celebrity Travel: Go away with Ivan McClellan

Photojournalist and filmmaker Ivan McClellan said that growing up, he enjoyed watching westerns like “Gunsmoke” and “Bonanza.” However, he wondered why there weren’t any Black cowboys. “I rarely saw representation of people who looked like me in these shows,” said McClellan, 41. “When I discovered the unique blend of Black culture and western culture, it ignited something in me. I felt a strong desire to document and share this overlooked aspect of American history. Over the last few decades, I’ve developed meaningful relationships within the Black rodeo community and have been dedicated to showcasing their stories and contributions.”

Earlier this year, McClellan helmed the second annual Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo – which he co-founded– in Portland. He also released the photobook “Eight Seconds: Black Rodeo Culture: Photographs by Ivan McClellan” (Damiani). Eight seconds is significant, because it refers to the amount of time riders have to stay on a bucking bull during a rodeo in order to score points. For more information, readers may follow the Portland resident on Instagram (@eightsecs).

Q: What area is best known as the home of the Black cowboys and cowgirls?

A: The largest population of Black cowboys and cowgirls can be found in Oklahoma, which serves as a hub for this culture. Texas also has a strong presence of Black cowboy culture, but Oklahoma is where you truly see it thriving. [But] I’ve had the privilege of photographing these incredible athletes in various locations, from Compton and Philadelphia, to Alabama and Phoenix.

Q: Is Black rodeo culture prominent outside of the United States?

A: Yes, Black cowboys and cowgirls can be found in other countries as well. For instance, in Africa, particularly in the Congo, there are cowboys with a unique blend of leather jacket and motorcycle cowboy vibes. Essentially, anywhere there’s agriculture, you’ll find cowboys. It’s a natural extension of working the land – getting on a horse, managing a herd and getting your hands dirty. This way of life is deeply tribal and connects to a fundamental human existence.

Q: What impact did Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” have in bringing attention to Black cowgirl and cowboy culture?

A: I thought it was incredible! It was exactly the amplification this culture needed and deserved. For someone as influential as Beyoncé to highlight this aspect of Black culture was a real gift. We are still seeing the impacts of her doing so with more people becoming aware of and celebrating the contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls.

Q: As a visible minority, are there certain areas of the country that you are reluctant to visit?

A: Not at all. I don’t approach my work with fear. In fact, if I feel afraid of something, I’m more likely to confront it head-on. Some aspects of my work can be intimidating. For instance, I used to be scared of horses and walking up to them face to face. Driving through areas like the Ozarks and rural Arkansas can be daunting, but I always remind myself that there are far more good people who want to help than bad people who want to cause harm. So far, I haven’t encountered any problems.

Q: Changing the subject a bit, what is your favorite vacation destination?

A: It was a road trip out east to Pennsylvania, with a drive through New York City. There's something special about the journey – the changing landscapes, the vibrant culture and the rich history of these areas make the experience incredibly rewarding.

Q: What's the most important thing you've learned from your travels?

A: If you approach people who are different from you with curiosity and sincerity, they can feel that and it resonates. It's not just about smiling and getting through life. We're all sensual creatures who can sense a lot more than we can see. This is especially true with cowboys, who have a deep connection to their environment and animals. They can sense who you are deep down. I always show up with positive energy and good intent, which has allowed my experiences to flourish. Practicing mindfulness and crowding out negativity has been key to this approach.

Q: What are your five favorite cities?

A: My hometown Kansas City, Kansas, has a special place in my heart. New York City is a constant source of inspiration, with its vibrant art scene and bustling energy. Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional food. Houston. Beyond the highways, it's a town rich in rodeos and cowboy culture. [And] Portland. While it has its challenges, I'm proud to be part of its future. Portland is implementing solutions grounded in our city’s compassionate values, and we are seeing progress. Over time, my initial skepticism about Portland being [considered] weird and lacking diversity faded when I decided to give it a chance. I hung up my hat, settled in and found a community hungry for connection and recognition, especially within the Black community. During the pandemic, thousands of previously unseen Black residents made their voices heard, demanding better from the city. I'm proud of their courage and the city's response. I'm committed to improving and enriching Portland's culture, making it a place where everyone can thrive and feel proud to call home. For instance, the success of the Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo. For the second year in row, we sold out – with thousands of Black residents in attendance, demonstrating the city's potential and inclusivity.

Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?

A: I've been fortunate to visit 48 states, but there are two places I've yet to explore – Hawaii and Alaska. In Hawaii, I'd love to unwind and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere amidst stunning scenery. Alaska fascinates me with its breathtaking landscapes and the allure of enjoying fresh snow crab.

Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?

A: I don't do much research beforehand. I prefer to show up and experience the destination for myself. Sometimes, reading blogs or other people's opinions can change your expectations before you even arrive. Embracing the unknown adds a sense of adventure and often reveals discoveries that I might not have known about otherwise.

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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)